First annual Gianmaria Buccellati Foundation Award for Excellence in Jewelry DesignThe first annual Gianmaria Buccellati Foundation Award for Excellence in Jewelry Design was presented on February 2, 2018 to GIA graduate Catherine Zheng. The competition – open to students who successfully completed the GIA Jewelry Design course in 2017 – recognizes artistic excellence in jewelry design.
Zheng was one of 12 finalists from seven GIA schools whose hand-rendered designs were judged by a committee comprised of known industry design, manufacturing, jewelry retail and jewelry publication experts. The Gianmaria Buccellati Foundation sponsored the award as a way to inspire beginning jewelry designers and honor the work of the renowned jewelry design house’s founder, Gianmaria Buccellati.
GIA graduate Catherine Zheng was the recipient of the 2017 Gianmaria Buccellati Foundation Award for Excellence in Jewelry Design. She was honored with the award for her rendering of an art deco inspired pendant necklace. Zheng, who studied at GIA’s Carlsbad school, received her GIA Jewelry Design certificate in 2017.
“This necklace is inspired by my favorite time period – Art Deco. It has very iconic and identical geometric lines to create a clean and sharp look. But at the same time it is also very feminine,” said Zheng. “I think this piece captured a great balance between strength and elegance. It
GIA graduate Catherine Zheng was the recipient of the 2017 Gianmaria Buccellati Foundation Award for Excellence in Jewelry Design. She was honored with the award for her rendering of an art deco inspired pendant necklace. Zheng, who studied at GIA’s Carlsbad school, received her GIA Jewelry Design certificate in 2017.
“This necklace is inspired by my favorite time period – Art Deco. It has very iconic and identical geometric lines to create a clean and sharp look. But, at the same time it is also very feminine,” said Zheng. “I think this piece captured a great balance between strength and elegance.”
The 2018 Gianmaria Buccellati Foundation Award for Excellence in Jewelry Design competition is underway and open to students in GIA’s Jewelry Design course who meet the eligibility requirements.
